Winner No. 1
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
With right guard Sam Cosmi going to injured reserve, the Washington Commanders had to think on their feet. And perhaps surprisingly to some fans, those in power went with Nick Allegretti over Andrew Wylie to start the contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
Allegretti hasn't been seen much since he was benched after two games. The veteran Super Bowl winner looked down and out, cast aside as an afterthought as others stepped into the breach. It's only one game, but the former Illinois college prospect made his chance for extended reps count in no uncertain terms.
He was assured and consistent. Allegretti also proved highly adaptable when Tyler Biadasz got hurt, moving into the center position. The Commanders had a lot of problems, but he was among the rare bright spots amid the doom and gloom.
This might not prevent Allegretti from being released this offseason. However, this should ensure he gets another opportunity elsewhere.
Loser No. 2
Javon Kinlaw - Commanders DL
The Commanders went against the grain by handing Javon Kinlaw a three-year, $45 million contract with $30 million guaranteed this offseason. Adam Peters and Dan Quinn identify the interior defensive lineman as the player capable of filling the void left by Jonathan Allen, who was released with one year remaining on his deal. It hasn't gone well.
Kinlaw is a big talker. Unfortunately, there isn't much substance attached when it comes to the crunch. The Commanders were expecting him to be a No. 1 alpha option with Payne on the sidelines. His inability to make plays against the run, coupled with almost no consistent pressure on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, made this another outing he'll want to forget in a hurry.
The egregious contract given to Kinlaw this offseason guarantees he will be around next season. But make no mistake; the South Carolina product is firmly on the hot seat.
Winner No. 2
Johnny Newton - Commanders DL
All eyes were on Johnny Newton as the Commanders allowed him to showcase what he could do from a prominent role on the defensive line interior. Daron Payne was missing from the clash, which provided another chance amid diminishing momentum in his long-term outlook.
The Commanders got a taste of what Newton is. He managed to catch the eye in pass-rushing situations en route to three sacks, but his lackluster ability to stand his ground against the run was once again evident.
This is what Newton is, for good or bad. There hasn't been much to suggest otherwise throughout his two-year stint with the Commanders. Unless there is significant play strength added and better awareness to improve run fits this offseason, the coaching staff will likely keep him as a pass-rushing specialist when the 2026 campaign arrives.
Regardless, this was Newton's best game in terms of production since being taken as the No. 36 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.